There are so many great indie sewing patterns in the world, sometimes it can be overwhelming to choose which ones to start with as a beginner, or which variation on a basic dress shape you should choose when you get started with an idea. I was introduced to the Artist’s Box Top and Dress by my friend Rae, and had not made this type of dress since I attempted my first Fen dress several years ago. It was a similar shape and I had some thrifted cotton fabric in my stash that I thought would make a great little summery dress.
I kind of rushed to make this first one as I was in my pre-travel make-all-the-things headspace before heading out of town for a trip and wanting some new clothes to take with me, but it still turned out so so cute. The sizes are grouped into three general size ranges, 0-12, 14-22, and 24-32 and I made the dress in the first size range. It was still plenty boxy even though I usually sew a size 10 or 12 in dresses depending on how much ease I’m trying to work in.
When I got back from my family visit with a few new fabrics to my name, the first thing I wanted to make was a second version in a Moda cotton lawn with a floral print that somehow screams spring and summer at the same time. This works because right now in my life I am routinely forgetting that it is August and not, say, April. Time, you thief.
This fabric was also 100% cotton but with an incredible swishy, drape-y factor to it that the first lacked. I also cut in the sides, using the pattern’s directions, about 1.5” on each side of the front and back of the top to make it less voluminous but still boxy. I think I’ve worn it four times in the past week already and added another little decorative stitch on the hem like I did on my Roscoe dress. I feel like the rhythm of my life right now, working from home and with no particular place to go, canning and making and knitting and snuggling on the couch is the exact pace for these casual pieces. I’m actually re-thinking about re-purposing a few of the fabrics I had designated for slightly dressier makes this summer into more flowy and easy shapes because for the forseeable future, that’s what I’m going to want to wear. Clothes that feel and look like “real clothes” but are also comforting and easy.
I’ve gotten a few questions on IG about the pattern - it is called the Artist’s Box Top but does include directions for sewing both a top and a dress, as I have done. My hope is that if you make this dress, you’ll find energy and excitement for what being at home feels like right now in a easy piece to wear. And definitely check out the pattern’s author Taryn who is so creatively inspiring.